ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

City Hall Reporter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

gannett

Communities Editor

Des Moines, IA

This editor will lead a team of reporters covering the Des Moines community, including city hall, suburban, neighborhood and public safety news, helping reporters break exclusive news, cultivate deep ...

gannett

Communities Editor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

This editor will lead a team of reporters covering the Des Moines community, including city hall, suburban, neighborhood and public safety news, helping reporters break exclusive news, cultivate deep ...

Hearst

Local Government Editor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is seeking a Local Government Editor to lead coverage of Houston City Hall ... Lead a team of reporters to break news competitively and authoritatively * Drive high-impact ...

Hearst

Local Government Editor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is seeking a Local Government Editor to lead coverage of Houston City Hall ... Lead a team of reporters to break news competitively and authoritatively * Drive high-impact ...

Hearst

Local Government Editor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is seeking a Local Government Editor to lead coverage of Houston City Hall ... Lead a team of reporters to break news competitively and authoritatively * Drive high-impact ...

Hearst

Local Government Editor

Houston, TX · On-site

The Houston Chronicle is seeking a Local Government Editor to lead coverage of Houston City Hall ... Lead a team of reporters to break news competitively and authoritatively * Drive high-impact ...

Hearst Newspapers

Local Government Editor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is seeking a Local Government Editor to lead coverage of Houston City Hall ... Lead a team of reporters to break news competitively and authoritatively * Drive high-impact ...

Hearst Newspapers

Local Government Editor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is seeking a Local Government Editor to lead coverage of Houston City Hall ... Lead a team of reporters to break news competitively and authoritatively * Drive high-impact ...

Hearst Newspapers

Local Government Editor

Houston, TX · On-site

The Houston Chronicle is seeking a Local Government Editor to lead coverage of Houston City Hall ... Lead a team of reporters to break news competitively and authoritatively * Drive high-impact ...

Hearst Newspapers

Local Government Editor

Houston, TX · Hybrid

The Houston Chronicle is seeking a Local Government Editor to lead coverage of Houston City Hall ... Lead a team of reporters to break news competitively and authoritatively * Drive high-impact ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCity Hall Reporter Jobs

City Hall Reporter information

See salary details

$12

$27

$37

How much do city hall reporter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for city hall reporter in the United States is $27.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $31.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a City Hall Reporter do?

A City Hall Reporter is a journalist who covers news, events, and issues related to city government and municipal affairs. They attend city council meetings, interview public officials and community members, and report on topics such as local policies, budgets, and development projects. Their work helps inform the public about how local government decisions impact the community. City Hall Reporters also investigate and explain complex city matters in a way that is accessible to readers or viewers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a City Hall Reporter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a City Hall Reporter, you need strong investigative journalism skills, a background in political science or journalism, and the ability to analyze policy and government proceedings. Familiarity with digital content management systems, audio/video recording equipment, and public records databases is typically required. Excellent interviewing, communication, and relationship-building skills help you develop sources and convey complex information clearly. These capabilities ensure accurate, timely, and impactful coverage of government actions that inform and engage the public.

What is the difference between City Hall Reporter vs Local Government Journalist?

AspectCity Hall ReporterLocal Government Journalist
CredentialsJournalism degree, reporting experienceJournalism degree, reporting experience
Work EnvironmentCity government offices, press conferencesCity government meetings, public events
Employer & IndustryLocal newspapers, TV stationsLocal newspapers, online news outlets
Search & Comparison IntentDifferences, roles, responsibilitiesSimilar roles, job descriptions

Both roles involve reporting on local government activities, often requiring similar credentials and working in comparable environments. The main difference is that a City Hall Reporter specifically focuses on city government news, while a Local Government Journalist may cover broader local government issues across multiple jurisdictions.

How does a City Hall Reporter typically collaborate with government officials and the public to gather accurate information?

City Hall Reporters regularly build relationships with government officials, public relations staff, and community members to stay informed about policy developments and decisions. They often attend public meetings, press conferences, and hearings, asking targeted questions and verifying facts to ensure balanced reporting. Effective City Hall Reporters are skilled at navigating official channels for information while also cultivating sources within the community to provide context and accountability. Collaboration and clear communication are essential, as reporters must balance official statements with independent verification and public perspectives.
More about City Hall Reporter jobs
What job categories do people searching City Hall Reporter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for City Hall Reporter jobs are:
City Hall Reporter jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Hall Reporter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 5% Full Time, 93% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,041 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Deputy Press Secretary - Bilingual

Deputy Press Secretary - Bilingual

New York City Council

New York, NY • On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Communications Division is responsible for advising and serving the Speaker and Council Members in all areas of Press relations, including organizing press conferences, developing media strategies and responding to breaking news. The Division also assists the Speaker and Council Members in drafting speeches, op-ed articles, columns and letters to the editor. The Division coordinates web content management training sessions and assists Council Members with strategies across all media platforms.
We are seeking a Deputy Press Secretary to join our Communications Division. The position will help develop and execute effective communications strategies that support the body's priorities and Council Members. They will collaborate with staff across the Communications Division, the offices of Council Members, and staff from the Legislative, Land Use and Finance divisions. The role will be responsible for developing messaging, drafting talking points and press materials (op-eds, press releases, etc.), and managing media relations.
SALARY RANGE:
$80,000 to $95,000
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Support the development and implementation of comprehensive communications strategies that elevate and advance City Council priorities.
  • Manage communications support for assigned Council Members and committees, coordinating closely with Members' offices and Central Staff.
  • Serve as a key point of contact for reporters covering City Hall and related policy areas, building and maintaining strong media relationships.
  • Draft, review, and edit press materials, including press releases, media advisories, briefing papers, talking points, and statements.
  • Assist in planning and execution of press events for the Speaker and City Council.
  • Pitch media stories and coverage opportunities to reporters in collaboration with senior communications staff.
  • Coordinate and staff media interviews for Council Members, ensuring preparation and message alignment.
  • Provide general communications support and undertake special projects as assigned.

Media Inquiries & Relationship Management
  • Ensure timely, accurate, and well-coordinated responses to all incoming media inquiries, tracking engagement across the press team.
  • Manage press engagement by synthesizing inquiries, consulting with relevant staff, and ensuring responses are thorough, strategic, and aligned with Council messaging.
  • Serve as a primary spokesperson for ethnic media outlets, including Spanish-language press, effectively communicating key messages and perspectives.
  • Lead and support rapid response efforts to ensure the Council's voice is represented in breaking news coverage.
  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with key media contacts across local, national, and ethnic outlets.
  • Support stakeholder engagement and relationship-building with internal teams, government partners, and external organizations.

Planning & Coordinating Press Events and Opportunities
  • Coordinate logistics for the Speaker's press conferences and events, including media outreach, run-of-show development, participant preparation, and execution.
  • Develop and distribute press materials and messaging, ensuring consistency and clarity across all communications.
  • Identify and secure proactive media opportunities, including interviews, feature stories, and op-eds for the Speaker and Council Members.
  • Oversee interview preparation and coordination for Council leadership and external validators.

Advancing Communications Strategy
  • Serve as a strategic communications partner in developing and executing initiatives that advance the Council's legislative and policy priorities.
  • Contribute to the development of messaging frameworks and communications tactics targeting diverse audiences across New York City.
  • Design and implement integrated public affairs campaigns utilizing a mix of media, digital, and multimedia strategies.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree and 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, or a related field.
  • Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with media and stakeholders.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated sound judgment, with strong analytical, creative, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work flexible, non-traditional hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English is highly preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
New York City residency required within 90 days of appointment.
For eligible employees, health, dental and vision insurance coverage are offered upon hire. Retirement plans, deferred compensation plans, group life insurance, paid time off and paid holidays, training resources, health & fitness reimbursement and wellness programs are also available.
The New York City Council makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact EEOOfficer@council.nyc.gov .
HOW TO APPLY:
Qualified candidates should forward their cover letter indicating your match to the stated job requirements; your resume; and a writing sample (e.g., traditional/digital/social media content) to:
E-MAIL: counciljobs@council.nyc.gov
MAIL: New York City Council
Attn: Personnel Services/Recruiting (SPDPRESS)
250 Broadway, 26th Floor
New York, New York 10007
FAX: 12124014711
While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
The New York City Council is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

Apply